Robert Treat Paine Papers, Volume 2
It is Contrary to the Scripture rule to bring a railing accusation against a Brother otherwise I might Scold & Charge you with raising or at least (with a Significan Shrug) confirming, a report of my inconstancy to the ancient & Honourable Sisterhood of old Maids & that I'm plotting a scheme to leave E'm. I Can't See thro' your design but Suppose you Can Give a reason for Your Conduct.
I was last Wensday in town & gratly disappointed not to find you there. I came up in a chaise and wanted Some things difficult for me to Get So Was oblige'd to try your Credit and of Mrs. How I Borrow'd 2 Dollars which I must be obliged to you to pay. I dont know what to say to you or how matters Stand but I am got behindhand at my Lodgings & have ask'd Tufts' for his Bill & Shou'd be glad if I Cou'd have the money to pay it but durst hardly ask for I know not how or hardly Who I am but hope for more Certainty.
I'm such an odd mixture I hardly dare write to you for by turns I'm Gay, Grave, Busy, and Indolent. I purpose tomorrow for Stoughton if nothing prevents & hope to Shake all together & return a pleasanter Composition.
My Complements attend all Enquirers. I'm Sorry I cou'd not See Your99Dunstable Katty. I know nothing new or Entertaining So adeiu. Yrs. as Usual,
Dr. Cotton Tufts (1732–1815).